Category: Cultural

Bilingual report — Santa Barbara Transgender Advocacy Network to hold rally, procession on Nov. 22 for Transgender Day of Remembrance

by Community Contributor • November 10, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara Transgender Advocacy Network (SBTAN) invites the community to come together in solidarity for Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR) on Saturday, November 22 at 2:00 p.m. at De La Guerra Plaza in downtown Santa Barbara.

Participants will gather at the plaza and then march down State Street carrying signs bearing the names of transgender individuals lost to violence this year. This annual observance honors their memory and calls attention to the urgent need for equality, safety, and dignity for all transgender people.

From Kindergarten to College: Adelante celebrates 25 Years of bilingual achievement

by Community Contributor • November 10, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Adelante Charter School celebrated its 25th anniversary on Saturday, November 1, at The Hub Downtown, honoring the Founding Board of Directors and longtime arts supporter Jim Kearns for their enduring contributions to bilingual education in Santa Barbara. The milestone event brought together 150 guests, including families, alumni, educators, and community leaders, to celebrate 25 years of excellence in dual-language education.

The evening opened with a warm welcome from Adelante alumni Isaiah Zermeno and Isabella Lopez-Solis, both students at Santa Barbara Junior High who began their educational journey together at Adelante in kindergarten.

Teatro de las Américas — Don’t miss your chance to see Nos Traen Cortitos 2025 on Nov. 14, 15

by Community Contributor • November 10, 2025 • Comments Off

Don’t miss your chance to see Nos Traen Cortitos 2025! Tickets are still available, but they’re selling fast. You can skip straight to the front of our line and secure your tickets by visiting our website.

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Borderline Day of Remembrance

by Community Contributor • November 7, 2025 • Comments Off

(Nov. 7), we honored the precious lives of the twelve Borderline victims, along with the survivors and first responders whose courage and compassion continue to inspire our community.

These names represent incredible people. Each left behind a legacy of kindness, love, and friendship that continues to live on in the hearts of all who knew them — and in the spirit of unity that has strengthened our community ever since.

Lumina Alliance’s Fatima Cervantes honored with statewide award for teen dating violence prevention

by Community Contributor • November 6, 2025 • Comments Off

Cervantes recognized for innovative, effective healthy relationship strategies among justice-impacted youth in San Luis Obispo

GARDEN GROVE — The California Partnership to End Domestic Violence (the Partnership), a coalition representing over 1,000 survivors, advocates, organizations, and allied individuals, today honored Lumina Alliance’s Bilingual Client & Justice Systems Relations Advocate Fatima Cervantes with the Planting the Seeds Award. The award celebrates people who have engaged in intergenerational domestic violence prevention education, contributing to healthy relationships and communities. The Partnership recognized Cervantes for building strong relationships with justice-impacted youth in San Luis Obispo County, as well as providing innovative lessons for discussing healthy communication and setting boundaries.

Bilingual commentary— Learning French

by Community Contributor • November 6, 2025 • Comments Off

French is in my blood.

No, not in the form of French family origins, if 23andMe has anything to say about it, but rather the French language courses through my veins. As far as I’m concerned, French is an undeniable part of my linguistic DNA.

Bilingual report — County of Santa Barbara November 2025 Newsletter

by Community Contributor • November 6, 2025 • Comments Off

If you need food assistance, the County has partnered with the Foodbank of Santa Barbara County to target food distribution efforts throughout the county. These events provide free fresh groceries and produce. Everyone is welcome, and no registration is required.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Michael Gurven reframes aging as evolutionary success’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • November 6, 2025 • Comments Off

In his new book, the anthropologist redefines aging as an evolutionary achievement, challenging a youth-obsessed culture to see the later decades of life as vital to our collective survival.

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — One Year After the Mountain Fire

by Community Contributor • November 6, 2025 • Comments Off

As I reflect on one year since the November 6, 2024 Mountain Fire, my heart is with the many residents who lost so much. Time has passed, but the weight of the fire still impacts many. The pain and loss remain real and are a heavy burden each day for those still rebuilding their lives.

Over the past year, I have witnessed incredible resilience. Neighbors have lifted each other up, volunteers have given their time and hearts, and local organizations continue to help families recover. The strength, kindness, and determination shown across this community are what make Ventura County such a special place to call home.

Bilingual report — Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo accepting applications for two bachelor’s degree programs at Allan Hancock College’s Santa Maria campus

by Community Contributor • November 6, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo is now accepting applications for two bachelor’s degree programs offered on Allan Hancock College’s Santa Maria campus. Applications for both programs — Business Administration and Sociology — are open through Dec. 1, with classes beginning in fall 2026.

The degree pathways are part of a broader Cal Poly at Hancock initiative, announced earlier this year, which allows Central Coast students to earn a Cal Poly degree without commuting to San Luis Obispo. The programs bring Cal Poly faculty and coursework directly to Hancock’s Santa Maria campus, providing students with a flexible, affordable, and high-quality educational experience close to home.

UCSB — The Current — “In ‘Digital Exhaustion,’ Paul Leonardi shares how to make technology work for you” and more news, events

by Community Contributor • November 4, 2025 • Comments Off

Leonardi’s new book focuses on how people use innovative tools to organize more effectively, increase efficiency and improve knowledge sharing within organizations.

Bilingual report — Ventura Fire Chief David Endaya announces retirement

by Community Contributor • November 3, 2025 • Comments Off

Since becoming an emergency first responder in 1994 and joining Ventura Fire in 1996 as an Emergency Paramedic, Endaya has advanced through every rank in the department before being selected as Fire Chief in 2014.

“Serving the City of Ventura as Fire Chief has been one of the greatest honors of my career,” said Chief Endaya. “I am proud of what we have accomplished and deeply grateful for the dedication, professionalism, and heart of the men and women of the Ventura Fire Department.”

Bilingual report — Annual Mussel Quarantine Lifted for Ventura County; Advisory Remains in Place for Humboldt County and Northern Channel Islands

by Community Contributor • November 3, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) announced that the annual quarantine on mussels gathered by sport harvesters from California’s coastal waters ended on midnight on Friday, October 31, 2025, for the California coast, including Ventura County. Shellfish advisories remain in place for sport-harvested razor clams from Humboldt County and for sport-harvested mussels, clams, scallops, and oysters from the Northern Channel Islands.

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — NO-COST Webinar: Immigrant Rights in California Child Care Settings webinars on Nov. 4, 6 and 14

by Community Contributor • November 3, 2025 • Comments Off

Immigrant Rights in California Child Care Settings – for families with children in child care and child care providers working in various California child care programs:

This training will provide:

Santa Paula Art Museum — Free Family Day: Día de los Muertos on Nov. 2

by Community Contributor • November 2, 2025 • Comments Off

Sunday, November 2, from 12 PM to 3 PM
Free for all ages

Guests of all ages are invited to celebrate Día de los Muertos at three locations in downtown Santa Paula on Sunday, November 2! Visit the Santa Paula Art Museum, Santa Paula Cemetery, and the Agriculture Museum and enjoy hands-on crafts, altar and art displays, face painting, and much more. Admission is free and all materials are provided. Hours and activities vary by location. Follow the link below for full details.

Free Family Day at the Santa Paula Art Museum is sponsored by Gold Coast Health Plan and The Smith-Hobson Foundation Fund.

MORE INFO?

Graduate student Geraldine Montoya overcomes adversity to inspire others and earns CSU Trustees’ Award

by Community Contributor • October 31, 2025 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — When Geraldine Montoya earns her master’s degree in School Counseling from California State University Channel Islands (CSUCI), she will become the first in her family to earn a graduate degree — a milestone that represents years of perseverance and determination.

A first-generation immigrant from Colombia, Montoya faced significant challenges growing up, including homelessness and the loss of her father at a young age. Yet through resilience and an unwavering belief in education, she turned those obstacles into motivation to help others succeed.

Today, Montoya maintains a 4.0 GPA in CSUCI’s School Counseling program while also serving as Coordinator for the California Student Opportunity and Access Program (Cal-SOAP). In that role, she leads more than 50 Cash4College workshops each year to help students and families access financial aid and pursue higher education.

Ventura County Neighbors Support Fund matching opportunity announced

by Community Contributor • October 31, 2025 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — Momentum is building with the announcement of a new matching opportunity for the Ventura County Neighbors Support Fund, a community-wide effort to support local families and small businesses experiencing sudden hardship and disruption. Through the generosity of the Brokaw Family Fund, donations up to a total of $50,000 will be matched, doubling impact for this vital humanitarian effort that offers a coordinated and trusted way for residents to step up and support one another.

“The Brokaw Family Fund normally focuses on bettering the lives of farm workers but now all our immigrant neighbors are threatened,” said Ellen Brokaw. “Non-profits are overwhelmed with requests from families for life-sustaining help. We hope this challenge will inspire others to contribute whatever they can to help all our neighbors in need.”

Bilingual commentary — Waiting For a Bus

by Community Contributor • October 31, 2025 • Comments Off

This morning I confidently strolled out to catch a bus not far from my home. Yes, I own a car, but I often take a bus to my destination, regardless. It’s free for people my age, and it gives me an excuse to get in some walking for the day.

I’ve been riding the bus in my area for several years, so I know the system well. To my credit, and to that of the bus system, I never missed a medical or other important appointment whenever I took the bus. Part of that is sheer good fortune, but I also build in “time cushions” to my more crucial itineraries by allowing extra time.

Port of Hueneme Dock Talk October 2025

by Community Contributor • October 31, 2025 • Comments Off

The Port of Hueneme was proud to support the Farmworker Health and Wellness Fair at Oxnard College on October 10th, connecting our local farmworker community with essential health resources, wellness services, and support programs.

Gold Coast Health Plan appoints new chief operating officer

by Community Contributor • October 31, 2025 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) today announced the appointment of Suma Simcoe as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO), effective Oct. 15.

“Suma brings a wealth of operational expertise, deep understanding of managed care, and a proven record of turning complex challenges into sustainable results,” said Dr. Felix Nuñez, GCHP’s chief executive officer. “Her leadership will help strengthen our infrastructure and ensure we continue to deliver high-quality, member-centered care for Ventura County. We are thrilled to welcome her to the team.”

Bilingual report — County of Santa Barbara Nov. 4 Board of Supervisors Meeting

by Community Contributor • October 31, 2025 • Comments Off

The next regular meeting of the
County Board of Supervisors is scheduled for
9 a.m. Tuesday, November 4, 2025
County Administration Building
Board Hearing Room, 4th Floor
105 East Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara
The public may participate virtually or in person at the County Board Hearing Room in Santa Barbara or Santa Maria.

Now’s the time to VOTE: Vote early and avoid the Election Day rush!

by Community Contributor • October 31, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — With the Nov. 4, 2025 Statewide Special Election quickly approaching, Ventura County Clerk-Recorder and Registrar of Voters Michelle Ascencion and the Elections team are preparing for the busy final voting days, with Election Day itself expected to be the busiest.

To avoid last-minute voting stress, voters are encouraged to take advantage of early voting opportunities now available. Nine Vote Center sites across Ventura County opened October 25 for in-person voting, late registration, ballot drop-off, and more. Another nine Vote Center locations will open Saturday, November 1.

Bilingual report — Preserve the past, inspire the future at the Olivas Adobe

by Community Contributor • October 31, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The City of Ventura invites residents to attend the Olivas Adobe Volunteer Open House on Sunday, November 9, 2025, from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. at Olivas Adobe Historical Park, located at 4500 Olivas Park Drive. Admission is free.

Volunteers play a vital role in preserving and sharing the history of the Olivas Adobe, Ventura’s only remaining Monterey-style adobe home from the Rancho era. At the open house, attendees can explore a variety of volunteer opportunities and learn how to help bring history to life for visitors of all ages.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Poet Robert Krut on the oblivion between tectonic plates’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • October 30, 2025 • Comments Off

Krut, who teaches in the Writing Program and the College of Creative Studies, draws inspiration from Raymond Carver and the Beat Poets for his new book.

Ventura College launches “Ventura Speaks” — A Day of Stories, Reflections and Celebration

by Community Contributor • October 30, 2025 • Comments Off

“Ventura Speaks” is the inaugural public event of the Ventura College Liberal Arts and Public Humanities Initiative. The new initiative seeks to strengthen the college’s liberal arts mission and create a vital community space where people engage with the big questions: Who are we? Where have we come from? What does our shared human journey mean?

Artwork by a Medea Creek middle schooler selected to appear in 2026 Metropolitan Water District Calendar

by Community Contributor • October 30, 2025 • Comments Off

OAK PARK — Artwork by 13-year-old Micah Aliling, currently an 8th grader at Medea Creek Middle School in Oak Park, was selected by the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MWD) to appear in its printed 2026 calendar and digital library.

MWD delivers 1.5 billion gallons of water daily to 19 million people in Southern California. Earlier this year, it invited students across its six-county service area, including those in the Triunfo Water & Sanitation District (TWSD), to submit water conservation-themed artwork for its “Being Water Wise Is…” Student Art Calendar Contest. This marks the fourth consecutive year that a student from Oak Park has had their artwork featured in the calendar.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Supervisors pass resolution pressing State to revise wildfire regulations and restore local control

by Community Contributor • October 29, 2025 • Comments Off

The resolution comes in response to growing concern over proposed state defensible space rules. The Board expressed concerns that the rules could result in significant costs for homeowners and local governments without addressing local needs.

“Wildfire prevention is a top priority for Ventura County, but one-size-fits-all rules don’t work,” said District 4 Supervisor Janice Parvin, Chair of the Board of Supervisors. “We need solutions that are both effective and realistic for our communities. This resolution shows our commitment to keeping residents safe without putting an unfair burden on them.”

Bilingual report — City of Ventura issues Proposition 218 notice on proposed water and wastewater rate adjustments

by Community Contributor • October 29, 2025 • Comments Off

With critical upgrades needed to aging systems and new state requirements ahead, Ventura Water is updating its rates to ensure reliable service for years to come.

Approximately every five years, independent financial and rate experts analyze system needs and develop rates that are adequate, fair, and cost justified. This process ensures Ventura Water can maintain reliable service, meet legal requirements, and prepare for future needs.

UCSB ‘The Current’ — ‘Why Classic Maya cities rose and fell’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • October 28, 2025 • Comments Off

The forces that precipitated the rise and fall of ancient urban centers echo in today’s urban challenges.

Bilingual report — October News from People’s Self-Help Housing

by Community Contributor • October 28, 2025 • Comments Off

We’re thrilled to unveil our 55th Anniversary Digital Community Quilt, a vibrant mosaic of creativity and connection featuring 55 unique panels created in a variety of mediums by PSHH team members, residents, and community members. Visit pshhc.org/quilt to see the full piece!

805UndocuFund — New public art markers to honor sites of ICE Kidnappings in Thousand Oaks

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — In a powerful act of remembrance and resistance, a series of art markers was installed in Thousand Oaks to commemorate locations where individuals were taken by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The installation honors the lives disrupted by these actions and the resilience of the local immigrant community, 805UndocuFund reported in a media release.

The event was held on Hampshire Road between Thousand Oaks Boulevard and Royal Oaks Drive. Community members, artists, and advocates gathered to recognize the significance of the moment and the collective effort behind the project.

Building Bridges – Port of Paita (Peru) sends delegation to the Port of Hueneme to build on Sister Port Relationship

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

PORT HUENEME — The Port of Hueneme, California, and the Port of Paita, Peru, are proud to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) establishing a Sister Port relationship through the U.S. Department of State’s Sister Ports Program. This partnership aims to advance cooperation, trade development, and the exchange of best practices between the two ports, reflecting a shared commitment to global connectivity and sustainable growth.

Bilingual commentary — The Importance of Modern Male Poets

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

One of my very close cousins, a man not much older than I am, has kept himself substantially busy in his retirement. Having worked as a chemical engineer in his previous life, he now dedicates himself to more creative work. Let’s call him “Nick.”

Nick’s photographs of the flora and fauna of his region in the Pacific Northwest are stunning, particularly those that feature birds of all types, sizes and habitats. From the tiny hummingbird to the massive, dinosaur-like Great Blue Heron, he captures superbly their mystery and majesty.

Bay Area Xicanx artist Melanie Cervantes brings ‘Protect Your Spirit’ exhibit to CSUCI through Dec. 12

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — Cal State Channel Islands (CSUCI) will host Bay Area Xicanx artist and cultural worker Melanie Cervantes for a solo exhibition, “Protect Your Spirit: Visual Lexicons of Resistance,” from Oct. 23 through Dec. 12 in the second-floor gallery of the John Spoor Broome Library.

An opening reception open to the public will be held Thursday, Oct. 23, at 5 p.m. at the Broome Library. Cervantes will also provide an artist talk for CSUCI students on Tuesday, Oct. 21, at noon, at the Broome Library.

Cervantes’ work offers a powerful visual language of resistance against social injustice and systemic oppression. Her art explores stories of struggle, resilience and triumph within marginalized communities and invites reflection on the role of art in social movements.

“There is both an ephemeral and a timeless nature to Cervantes’ art,” said CSUCI art historian Theresa Avila. “In this era of increased repression and surveillance, the type of art that Cervantes creates is needed now more than ever.”

Santa Paula Art Museum — Inbox Art Exhibit: ‘Celebrating Nature: Paintings by Allied Artists of the Santa Monica Mountains and Seashore’ on view through Nov. 9, more upcoming events

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

Allied Artists of the Santa Monica Mountains and Seashore was founded in the early 1990s to support and promote the hard-fought conservation of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, established in 1978. The SMMNRA encompasses over 156,000 acres that stretch east to west from Griffith Park in Los Angeles County to Point Mugu State Park in Ventura County. With 46 miles of scenic coastline, over 500 miles of trails, and a vast array of native flora, fauna, and culturally significant sites, the SMMNRA is the largest urban national recreation are in the world, bordering the second-largest city in the United States.

SBCC School of Extended Learning — Rediscover your creative spark

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — This fall, SBCC School of Extended Learning invites older adults to discover or rediscover their creative potential. Whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced artist looking to refine your skills, the Older Adults Program offers expert instruction in a welcoming environment, with free art classes designed specifically for adults age 55 and over.

Two of the program’s exceptional eight-week courses are launching the week of October 20, with spots still available:

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara (MCASB) — Leaf into Fall Feast Mode

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

Fall is Feasting Season

Join us in celebrating:

(The Art of Mexcal)

Filipino American History Month

Ventura Music Festival — Festival feedback, exciting encores!

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

Dear Friends,

As we wrap this incredible 30th season, we’d love to hear about the concert(s) you attended. Your feedback helps us shape what comes next – artists, venues, start times, even the snacks!

UCSB — The Current — ‘How artistic research preserves cultural memory and care’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

Artist Kim Garcia’s new LA show “Tender Material” connects family stories with Philippine cultural history.

Downtown Oxnard — It’s Trick-or-Treat time starting tonight…

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

Adelante Charter School of Santa Barbara celebrates five years of transformative leadership under executive director Javier Bolívar

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Adelante Charter School of Santa Barbara proudly celebrates five years of leadership under Executive Director Javier Bolívar, whose vision, resilience, and unwavering dedication have guided the school through a period of remarkable growth and renewal.

Bolívar’s journey to education is both inspiring and deeply human. Born and raised in Venezuela, he grew up the youngest of four in a close-knit family shaped by love, creativity, and perseverance. His mother, a stay-at-home mom and talented seamstress, and his father, a public employee, instilled in him humility, respect, and the belief that kindness is a strength. The loss of two older brothers while they were in college profoundly influenced Bolívar’s empathy and his commitment to live with purpose.

Bilingual report — Now’s the Time to Vote! Ventura County Vote Centers opening this Saturday are a Resource for Voter Assistance

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025 is opening day for nine vote centers located throughout Ventura County for the Nov. 4 Statewide Special Election. Nine additional vote centers will open the following Saturday, Nov. 1. Vote center hours are 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day until Nov. 3, and 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM on Election Day, Nov. 4.

“With this being a special election, the vote center locations may be different from those used in past elections,” County Clerk-Recorder and Registrar of Voters, Michelle Ascencion, said. “Please check your County Voter Information Guide, the insert in your vote by mail ballot, or the County Elections website at Vote.VenturaCounty.gov, to find the list of vote center sites that are opening this week.”

Jackie Carrera, Ashley Costa, and Das Williams to be honored at 2026 LEAP Awards

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

GOLETA — Jackie Carrera, President and CEO of the Santa Barbara Foundation, and Ashley Costa, Executive Director of the Lompoc Valley Community Healthcare Organization, will be honored at the 2026 LEAP Awards, alongside Das Williams, who will be recognized as Distinguished Alumnus.

The 2026 LEAP Awards will be a milestone celebration of LEAP’s 55th anniversary as a nonprofit and 50 years of its Children’s Center. For the first time in six years, the event will be held in person at the stunning Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort on Saturday, February 28, 2026. The brunch will bring together community leaders, philanthropists, and partners who believe in creating thriving futures for children and families.

“As we celebrate 55 years of service, we are honored to recognize Jackie Carrera, Ashley Costa, and LEAP alumnus Das Williams. Each, in their own way, has strengthened families, lifted voices, and inspired children to shine. Their leadership reflects the very heart of LEAP’s mission, and we are proud to celebrate them alongside our community,” said Lori Goodman, LEAP CEO.

Legacies of Hope Dinner lights a candle for People Helping People

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

LOS OLIVOS — The Legacies of Hope dinner, was an evening of storytelling and community, gathering many of People Helping People’s most dedicated supporters to the Inn at Mattei’s Tavern in Los Olivos on October 17, 2025.

The highlight of the evening was the presentation of this year’s Luminary Awards, for those who have given in extraordinary ways to support the mission of People Helping People (PHP).

This year’s recipients are the Becky Barieau and Billy Wathen Family, Feed the Valley with Chef Daisy and Greg Ryan, and the Brady Family.

Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara — Save Art Save Democracy

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

MCASB Launches Future Fund
in 50th-Anniversary Campaign

Art and free speech are essential to a healthy democracy—Museum of Contemporary Art Santa Barbara (MCASB) calls on our communities across Santa Barbara and the Central Coast to help safeguard the region’s only dedicated, free contemporary art museum. Once again communities are in crisis—and this time, artists and art institutions are on the front line standing up against authoritarianism. Join us!

Retired Allan Hancock College instructor Nancy Jo Ward selected for XV Florence Biennale

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Retired Allan Hancock College Graphic Design Professor Nancy Jo Ward has been selected to exhibit her mixed-media work at the XV Florence Biennale in Florence, Italy, Oct. 18–26, 2025.

Ward, who recently concluded 27 years of service at Hancock, will present three works— titled Anna-Louise, Katerina and Selia—at the prestigious international exhibition. Her invitation places her among an international roster of more than 500 artists and designers more than 80 countries.

Ward’s practice blends digital technology with traditional materials to explore psychological portraiture, memory, identity and the aesthetics of post-internet culture, an approach that aligns with the Biennale 2025 theme, “The Eternal Union Between Light and Darkness.”

UCSB — The Current — ‘Novel membrane gel from UCSB offers new tool for breast cancer research’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • October 21, 2025 • Comments Off

Researchers created an algae-based gel for studying mammary epithelial cells, which form milk-producing ducts and glands in healthy breast tissue and can transform into cancer cells.

Bilingual report — Application deadlines near for Hancock’s BSN Pathway and EMT Program

by Community Contributor • October 21, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College is helping local students and healthcare professionals take the next step in their careers with two upcoming program application deadlines — including the college’s new Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Pathway, developed in partnership with California State University, Channel Islands (CSUCI), and the spring 2026 Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) academy.

Bilingual report — Workforce Development Board of Ventura County launches PEER Up Grant Program to empower individuals with disabilities

by Community Contributor • October 21, 2025 • Comments Off

OXNARD — The Workforce Development Board of Ventura County (WDBVC) is proud to announce the launch of Professional Empowerment and Employment Resources (PEER) Up, a groundbreaking new program designed to close the employment and wage gaps for individuals with disabilities in Ventura County. PEER Up is a workforce development initiative that provides paid work experience, mentorship, and inclusive job connections to help participants build confidence and thrive in today’s workforce.

Ventura Housing invites Ventura County artists to create public art for new affordable housing community

by Community Contributor • October 21, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Ventura Housing is inviting Ventura County artists to help bring beauty and meaning to its affordable housing community, Valentine Road Apartments.

As part of its commitment to integrating art into community spaces, Ventura Housing seeks artworks that inspire, uplift, and reflect the voices of residents. This project reflects Ventura Housing’s belief that art is an essential part of what makes a home. By bringing creativity and color into shared spaces, the Valentine Road public art initiative aims to spark pride, connection, and healing among residents.

Central Coast Alliance for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE) — We’re Hiring! Join the movement for justice on the Central Coast

by Community Contributor • October 21, 2025 • Comments Off

At CAUSE, we believe that real change begins at the local level – when everyday people come together to organize, speak out, and build collective power in our communities.

Here on the Central Coast – and across the state and nation – we face urgent challenges. But we have the power to defend what matters and push for local progress that reflects our values. That’s why we are hiring.

Bilingual report — Adelante Charter School, a 2025 California Distinguished School, celebrates 25 years of Dual-Language Program

by Community Contributor • October 20, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — This fall, Adelante Charter School, a 2025 California Distinguished School and a Spanish dual-language immersion program, will celebrate its 25th anniversary by honoring individuals who have been instrumental to its success and growth. The honorees include the school’s inaugural board members, whose vision and dedication made history in Santa Barbara County, along with local philanthropist Jim Kearns.

Bilingual report — Office of Traffic Safety awards $193,516.00 grant to the City of Ventura for Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Program

by Community Contributor • October 20, 2025 • Comments Off

“We are excited to receive this grant, which will allow us to significantly expand our bicycle and pedestrian safety program,” said Principal Civil Engineer Jeff Hereford. “By focusing on education, awareness, and promoting safe practices, we aim to reduce crashes and prevent injuries. Ultimately, we’re working toward building more walkable and bike-friendly neighborhoods where everyone can travel safely and confidently.”

Bilingual report — Ventura Fire Department celebrates 150 years of service

by Community Contributor • October 20, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — This year marks the 150th anniversary of the Ventura Fire Department, the oldest fire department in Ventura County and one of the oldest in California. Its legacy began in 1875, when the Monumental Fire Company was formed with 53 volunteer members. Just three years later, in 1878, the newly incorporated City of Ventura officially created the Ventura Fire Department when the Monumental Fire Company turned over all of its equipment to the City.

In 1915, Ventura hired its first full-time fire chief, beginning the department’s transition from a volunteer organization to a professional fire service. Soon after, paid firefighters were hired, establishing the foundation of the modern agency that continues to protect Ventura today.

Bilingual report — From College Tours to Cultural Immersions, REACH Fellows REACH New Heights

by Community Contributor • October 20, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY — This summer marked another season of growth, adventure, and celebration for REACH. Fellows toured colleges across California, trekked into the Sierra Nevada on a record four backpacking trips, and immersed themselves in the cultures of Bolivia and Guatemala. Together, these experiences embody REACH’s mission: preparing first-generation students to thrive in higher education while cultivating the resilience, leadership, and vision necessary to succeed in life.

Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) celebrates National Give to Women & Girls Day by honoring Gwyn Lurie and WEV’s League of Extraordinary Women

by Community Contributor • October 20, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) honored National Give to Women & Girls Day on Oct. 7 by celebrating its annual donors, members of the organization’s League of Extraordinary Women, at a luncheon at the Santa Barbara Club. The event brought together community leaders, entrepreneurs, and philanthropists united in the mission to strengthen women’s economic power.

Volunteers honor veterans at Habitat Ventura’s Playhouse Build Blitz, Presented by Bank of America

by Community Contributor • October 20, 2025 • Comments Off

Our 2025 Playhouse Build Blitz will bring together more than 150 local volunteers to decorate custom playhouses to gift to local military and veteran families. This event provides volunteers a unique opportunity to celebrate Veterans Day by thanking military families for their service and helps raise funds for Habitat Ventura’s life-changing programs through sponsorships for the playhouses built by volunteers.

Bilingual report — Ventura County Probation Agency welcomes first K-9 officers and partners

by Community Contributor • October 17, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura County Probation Agency (VCPA) is proud to announce the assignment of two new K-9 Officers, Virna Mejia and Andy Bernal, and their specially trained K-9 partners, Inca and Koda. This marks a significant step forward in enhancing the agency’s safety protocols and community service capabilities.

The introduction of K-9 Officers and their canine partners is a strategic initiative designed to strengthen public safety and support probation supervision efforts. This highly skilled K-9 team will focus on detecting illegal substances and weapons during home visits and searches within juvenile facilities. Their presence not only acts as a powerful deterrent against criminal activity but also enhances officer safety and efficiency during field operations.

Bilingual report — Getting the flu vaccine is critically important this flu season

by Community Contributor • October 17, 2025 • Comments Off

By Kaiser Permanente

If you’re thinking about skipping the flu shot this year, you may want to reconsider!

Scientists and public health officials are preparing for a potentially active flu season in the United States in the coming months, based on recent trends and updated vaccine formulations. Here’s what they say the public should expect:

Local, grassroot Giving Circle reaches $100,000 in gifts to local, Latino-led or Latino-serving non-profit organizations

by Community Contributor • October 17, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Latino Community Foundation’s Santa Barbara Latino Giving Circle (SBLGC) awarded Immigrant Legal Defense Center and 805undocufund a total of $32,000 during their annual Grants Night this month.

“Grants Night is the culmination and celebration of our circle’s annual grant cycle,” said Teresa Alvarez, co-founder of the SBLGC. “Our group’s collective funds are gifted to non-profits that our circle members nominated, elected based on our funding priorities which were Immigr ant Rights & Legal Services Power Building. In today’s climate, we are confident that ILDC and 805 Undocufund will maximize these funds immediately.”

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